Thought I'd continue with a little more of the
blog before signing off. I will try to add more throughout
the year especially as the Laurie Morvan Band has significant
events happen.
Got up this morning around 7 am, had coffee, wandered
around the house a while, and finally went for a run.
Came back to the house and started in on some of the things
that needed repairing around the house. The outside needed
a little help and a light in the bedroom needed immediate
attention.
The light has a wireless transmitter in it and the battery
that runs it has died. It is an unusual battery so I get
one at Home Depot, replace the battery, and the light
works fine. Now the fan will also work which is much desired
during these warm summer months.
Some sprinklers have been misbehaving so I addressed them.
I have to replace one of the sprinkler valves as it has
been getting stuck on and flooding the back yard as well
as running over into the neighbor's yard. After
several trips to Home Depot I get the right one and get
it replaced. I then repair a sprinkler manifold that runs
a drip system to the flower pots on the patio. Our gardener
hits it some times with his edger so I've had to
periodically replace it. Luckily, I have one on hand and
I get it fixed quickly. The last thing to address is our
sump pump. We have a low spot in the back where water
collects. We had a sump pump and tank installed to drain
this moisture off and it is not working. After some digging
and parts replacements it is up and running in good order
again.
By now it is late afternoon so I head in for a shower
and a break.
Before dinner I get a couple of hours of practice in on
the bass. I just sit with my metronome clicking away and
jam on various ideas. Now that's fun. I am surprised
at how strong my playing chops have become and it is a
joy to feel this strong while playing. My buddy, Andy
Vermiglio, wrote me when we returned from our tour. In
his message he said I must have chops of steel. I guess
my chops are a little stronger than when I left. Even
though I have a regular practice routine when I am at
home there is nothing like performing 3 to 4 hours a night
many nights in a row to strengthen ones hands and ideas.
This comes as a pleasant surprise. I want to always be
able to groove hard like Tommy Castro's bass player,
Scott Sutherland.
After a nice dinner, Susan and I sit down to watch some
TV, enjoy each others company, and read a little before
going to bed. Until next time, adieu.
